Long Range Ultrasonic Testing (LRUT) Bladder

Bombay Rubber & Carbon Works

Custom-made inflatable rubber bladders that press LRUT transducer rings evenly and gently against the pipe surface, for dependable guided-wave inspection. Manufactured by Bombay Rubber & Carbon Works.

Long Range Ultrasonic Testing (LRUT) is a non-destructive method that uses guided waves to screen long lengths of pipe from a single test position. The quality of the result depends heavily on how well the transducer ring is coupled to the pipe. The LRUT bladder from Bombay Rubber & Carbon Works is an air-inflated, reinforced rubber element that sits behind the transducer array and applies uniform, adjustable pressure all the way round the pipe, including on slightly uneven or lightly corroded surfaces.

Because the pressure is spread evenly and can be controlled with a simple air supply, the bladder helps deliver consistent signal quality while protecting both the pipe and the sensors from point loading.

Parameter Details
Product LRUT inflatable bladder / clamping bladder
Available pipe sizes 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 24 inch (custom sizes on request)
Materials Natural rubber, EPDM, silicone
Hardness 70 Shore A (typical; other grades on request)
Construction Reinforced, moulded inflatable bladder with air inlet
Operating medium Compressed air
Customisation Size, material, inlet/nozzle type and special features as per drawing or sample

Please confirm working pressure, temperature range and other values with our technical team before ordering.

Why Use an Inflatable Bladder for LRUT?

  • Reduces scaffolding, excavation and insulation removal, saving time and inspection cost.
  • Improves repeatability of results by keeping coupling pressure consistent from test to test.
  • Lets inspectors cover long pipe lengths from a single access point, with minimal disruption to operations.
  • Supports early detection of defects, helping to plan maintenance and avoid unplanned downtime.

    Key Features

    • Uniform clamping force: even pressure around the full circumference for steady transducer contact.
    • Gentle on surfaces: soft rubber construction suits delicate, coated or irregular pipe surfaces.
    • Long service life: reinforced construction designed for repeated inflation cycles.
    • Quick to fit: deflate, position, inflate – no special tooling needed on site.
    • Wide material choice: natural rubber, EPDM or silicone to suit temperature and environment.
    • Made to order: built to your pipe diameter, ring design and operating conditions.
  • Oil & gas pipelines: screening of buried, insulated or road-crossing lines for corrosion and wall loss.
  • Refineries and process plants: inspection of pipe racks and hard-to-reach lines without removing insulation.
  • Power generation: steam and water pipework in thermal and other power plants.
  • Offshore platforms: risers and other lines where access is limited.
  • Storage and pressure systems: supporting condition monitoring of critical piping.